Ash

Ash return with their re-energised fifth and possibly last studio LP Twilight of the Innocents, mixing classic pop lyrics and punk influenced melody.

The departure of guitarist, Charlotte Hatherley, and re-location of the remaining band members has proved influential for all concerned, Twilight of the Innocents was self-produced and recorded in New York with only the assistance of a sound engineer. As Rick Murray, Ash’s drummer, notes: “This change gave us a huge sense of achievement. It allowed us to operate at our own pace, fundamentally with this LP, everything falls on our shoulders and this encouraged us to get down to working on it.”

Following the disappointment surrounding their previous album Meltdown, Ash took time to recoup before heading back to the studio. Rick notes: “We had six months off, possibly the longest time since the first album. This allowed us to get our hunger back as musicians before getting back down to writing, recording and promoting with a clean slate.” Their recent time spent recording has also led the boys to announce their decision to release only singles in the future, feeling a need for spontaneity and creativity in their music production.

With the recording completed in February, Ash has spent the past six months touring constantly. Their recent four performances at London’s KOKO also allowed the band to reminisce, the last time they played as a threesome was during a five-night stint at the Astoria. Ash’s return proves they are still capable of producing infectious sounds, which will no doubt be loved by fans both old and new. Twilight of the Innocents available now through Infectious Records.

Interview with Andrew Whaley, Writer of The Rise and Shine of Comrade Fiasco

Andrew Whaley’s play, The Rise and Shine of Comrade Fiasco transports the audience back to Zimbabwe in 1986. The piece focuses on Comrade Fiasco, who claims to be a freedom fighter.

Re-coding Narratives: Aesthetica speaks to Laureana Toledo

With a background in photography, Laureana Toledo’s (b. 1970, Mexico) practice incorporates various media, chosen in relation to a specific concept or theme of the work.

Jean Tinguely: Hauser & Wirth, Frieze Masters, London

Running alongside the contemporary art fair Frieze London, Frieze Masters offers a unique view of the relationship between old and new art. Visitors to Booth B5 at the fair this year will be able to enjoy a new solo presentation of works by Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, staged by Hauser & Wirth.

Aesthetica Magazine

Aesthetica is a worldwide destination for art and culture. In-depth features foreground today’s most innovative practitioners across art, design, photography, architecture, music and film.